Summary : Discover the pure wildness of Baja’s desert islands and the living sea, and then go further and delve into the Peninsula’s unique culture and art from ancient times to modern. You’ll find the dolphins, seabirds, and extraordinary marine life enchanting and the region’s history and culture rich and intriguing. And when you see Baja’s islands with rugged cliffs and white sand beaches reflected in an azure sea, you’ll understand immediately why UNESCO designated them a World Heritage Site. Search for migrating humpback whales on their way to the Sea of Cortez. Hike a desert arroyo to see ancient art, handprints hidden in a cave for millennia, and feel a connection to the ancients in this high, remote desert. Visit Todos Santos, a Pueblos Magico—a small Baja town with outsize charm. All departures will have a certified photo instructor onboard.

The small bay and white sand beach of Agua Verde is set among the dramatic mountains of the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range. Hike up volcanic cliffs to a series of caves painted with ancient red handprints or kayak the dramatic shoreline. Search for whales and dolphins, known to inhabit the region.

Transit the narrow peninsula to Todos Santos, a charming town filled with art galleries. Stroll the town, meet the artisans, and dine locally. Take an evening stroll along the malecon and enjoy evening drinks while taking in a ballet folklorico.

Learn the inspring story of Cabo Pulmo National Park conservation, and snorkel the reef among red fan corals and large schools of fish. Meet some of the people responsible for protecting Cabo Pulmo and learn how it has become a model for reefs around the world. Search of humpback whales before taking in sunset at Lands End.

Disembark this morning in San Jose del Cabo and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Notes

Reverse Itinerary (San Jose to La Paz): 1/10/2015

Certified Photo Instructor:Every expedition aboard the Sea Lion/Sea Bird will offer a certified photo instructor. Guests of any interest or skill level can rely on assistance with their camera model, instruction on elements of composition and more, plus useful shooting tips—in the field, where it counts!

Included:Accommodations; meals and non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship; shore excursions; sightseeing and entrance fees; special access permits; transfers to and from group flights; use of kayaks and snorkeling equipment; taxes and service charges; services of your expedition staff.

Members of ExpeditionTrips.com save $500 per person on select dates. Offer based on availability, is subject to change, and may not be combined with any other offers. Please contact ExpeditionTrips for details.Applicable Dates: Select DeparturesExpiration Date: 3/31/2015

National Geographic Sea Lion/Sea Bird

Overview : These 62-passenger vessels were built in the U.S. in 1982. They are 152 feet in length, and operate comfortably in remote environments. With a shallow draft and small size, the Sea Lion / Sea Bird can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships. They have a fleet of motorized Zodiac landing craft that is key to this style of expedition travel and provide passengers close-up views of whales in Baja California, icebergs in Alaska and waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest. All Alaska departures include an Undersea Specialist who will capture the amazing world beneath the Sea Lion/Sea Bird. The vessels are equipped with tools for exploration that guarantee an in-depth experience. Additional special features onboard include: Hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and wetsuits in Baja. Gym includes: hand weights, stationary bike, step machine, treadmill, and yoga mats.

Cabin Description : All cabins face outside with windows, have climate controls, and include private facilities with amenities such as hair dryers.

Judy M.

East Lansing, MI May 2014

Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion/Sea Bird

The staff on the National Geographic ship was exceptional. I prefer these cruises to the larger cruise ships. The level of service and naturalist guides was five stars, and the trip was over and above my expectations, and ExpeditionTrips assistance was excellent.

Susan A.

Oakland, CA Mar 2014

Baja – Among the Great Whales

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion/Sea Bird

Every day had truly memorable moments. Touching the gray whales was the highlight. The naturalists were knowledgable and eager to share their expertise in a broad range of subjects. On the whole, we found (as in the past) your expertise was invaluable. Loved the packet we received in the mail.

Julia W.

Marietta, GA Dec 2013

Monteverde & Costa Rica to Panama

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion/Sea Bird

We thoroughly enjoyed the trip on the Sea Lion and to the Monteverde Cloud Forest. The staff, guides and crew were phenomenal!! We were inspired to take this trip because my husband has been into landscape photography for the past 7 years, so we researched the National Geographic photographers and chose to go on a trip with Michael Melford.

Working with ExpeditionTrips is a must. We pestered both Jennifer and Joy with lots of questions – and they always knew the correct answers and didn't seem to mind!! When we wanted to fly down a day early and stay overnight in Panama City after the cruise, ET gave us great recommendations on where to stay in safe neighborhoods. The customer service we received from ExpeditionTrips was 10+++++.

Gudrun and Paul W.

Albuquerque, NM Aug 2013

Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion/Sea Bird

Every day on the National Geographic ship was memorable. With the zodiacs, we could approach wildlife within a few feet and observe their behavior unhurried. The friendly and knowledgeable naturalists taught us so much about the grizzlies, marine mammals and birds in Alaska. The services of the guides and the staff were excellent in every way.

We've traveled extensively around the globe and find that the small ship cruises are perfect. They afford more comfort in getting to the next destination and you only have to pack and unpack your luggage once. We also love the likeminded fellow travelers on the National Geographic cruises.

It was great working with ExpeditionTrips to plan our trip. Joshua Logan was always helpful and available. Thank you!

John and Tammy R.

Morgantown, PA Mar 2013

Baja – A Remarkable Journey

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion/Sea Bird

We had a fantastic trip and it definitely ranks high in our top 10. My most memorable part of the trip was when the gray whales came up to our zodiac boat and let me touch them. The staff, guides and crew could not have been any better. The length and itinerary of the trip were great, we could not have asked for better.

One of the things that we are simply amazed by every time we take one of these trips is just how knowledgeable the expedition staff is. They make it exciting and new each time. The staff aboard the Sea Bird was exceptionally attentive to our every need. We celebrated my husband's birthday on board and they even took the time to make him an extra special birthday cake! This trip was fantastic. Looking forward to booking another trip soon!

Final Payment: The shipping company reserves the right to cancel your reservation if payment has not been received by final payment due date. For expeditions departing in 2015 aboard all ships with the exception of Explorer and Orion, final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. For expeditions aboard Explorer and Orion, payment is due 120 days prior to departure.

Note: A variation of this policy applies to a party of eight people or more. Ask for details.

Payment Methods: Credit cards are accepted for both deposit and final payments (VISA, MC, AMEX, Discover).

Cancellation Policy

All requests for cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation penalties are based on the number of days prior to departure that the cancellation was received and are subject to change without notice. We strongly suggest you obtain trip cancellation and travel insurance. Failure to secure a valid passport, visa, or air arrangements does not waive this policy.

Penalties:For Expeditions on All Ships with the exception of Orion and Explorer:120 days or more: Deposit refunded less $350* per person119-90 days: Forfeit advance payment cost89-60 days: Forfeit 25% of voyage cost59-45 days: Forfeit 50% of voyage cost44 days or less: Forfeit entire voyage cost

Bridge and Upper Decks – Two lower single beds or double bed, some with pull-out single bed for third person, table with seating and two large windows, climate control, private facilities, and hair dryer.